The National Environment Service (NES) hosted a Global Environment Facility (GEF) Project and Oversight Workshop from 18th – 20th March 2026 aimed at strengthening internal capacity to effectively implement and manage GEF initiatives.
The workshop, brought together representatives from the NES Rarotonga and Pa Enua Offices, with sessions focused on strengthening project oversight, improving access to GEF funding, and supporting national engagement in international environmental processes—similar to broader GEF workshops that emphasize collaboration, planning, and capacity building across sectors.
Key sessions included a GEF overview delivered by Environmental Partnerships Manager Hayley Weeks, providing participants with a clearer understanding of funding mechanisms and project requirements. Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI) representatives Tatryanna Utanga and Charlene Hoff led presentations on diplomacy and negotiations, complemented by practical negotiation training and simulation exercises designed to strengthen participants’ engagement in international environmental discussions.
Environmental Policy and Planning Manager Tekura Moekaa highlighted the importance of multilateralism and the use of national data to inform global processes, highlighting how data collected locally through the GEF RESPONSE project can support current INC negotiations.The last day participants focused on developing communication skills and data collection, as part of the upcoming GEF ISLANDS project, set to reach its implementation stage at the end ofApril – May 2026. Participants from Pa Enua Officers ensured that the outer island perspectives were well represented in the discussions, contributing to more inclusive and coordinated national implementation. Atiu Environment Officer Enua Wichman encouraged his fellow officers with the message, “If you’re shy, you’ll starve, so if you don’t want to starve, don’t be shy,” highlighting the importance of confidence, mentorship, and active participation.
